FOR designated campsite cooks, dishes they prepare and serve may already be repetitious. Adobo, sinigang, tinola? We’ve all had them. While sustenance is what’s required after a long and tiring hike, there’s nothing wrong with a little indulgence, especially when it can be easily prepared.

The secret to achieving this is potatoes! Well, dehydrated ones to be exact, which are now available in the market thanks to Potatoes USA-Philippines.

What exactly are US dehydrated potatoes (US dehy)? ​

Lightweight, compact and versatile, US dehy potatoes are the perfect ingredient for mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts. (Photos from Potatoes USA-Philippines)

​US dehy are potatoes grown and harvested in the US, and then processed under stringent standards of the US Department of Agriculture. Lightweight, compact and versatile, US dehy potatoes are the perfect ingredient for mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts who carry heavy equipment and packs during multi-day expeditions.

Both hikers and their cooks will be surprised to know that as little as one kilo of US dehy rehydrates to as much as five kilos. This means the less and lighter US dehy can yield more its weight. There’s also no need to wash, peel and boil US dehy, saving the cooks precious time during preparation and cooking.

For starters, it can be made into differently flavored mashed potatoes with the use of various cheeses, seasonings and spices. Mashed potatoes can perfectly substitute rice, as well as complement meat dishes—think barbecued ribs or chicken and pork adobo.

This is just the beginning of fancier yet easier dinners on top of the mountain, under the stars, and with the company of friends.​Here are three simple recipes campsite cooks can recreate: ​